Respiratory Disease

Respiratory Disease-Asthma

Causes:Scientists aren't sure what is the cause of asthma but believe it is a combination of genetics and environment. Some of the triggers of asthma is airborne allergens, respiratory infections, physical activity, cold air, and air pollutants. 

Symptoms: The most common symptoms of asthma are coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness,pain,or pressure. The early symptoms of asthma are  frequent coughs at night, losing breath easily, wheezing/coughing after exercise, decreases of lung functions, trouble sleeping, and signs of cold or allergies. 

Treatment:Some treatments for asthma are anti-inflammatory drugs like inhaled steroids and bronchodilators. Inhaled steroids reduce the swelling and mucus production in airways which prevents asthma attacks. Bronchodilators is a treatment since it relaxes the muscles that tightens the airway. 

Prognosis: Asthma usually last in a person's life.One study reported that 72% of men and 86% of women with asthma had symptoms 15 years after an initial diagnosis. Death is very uncommon from asthma and most death asthma are preventable.

References:http://www.webmd.com/asthma/default.htm